Alexander SKWebb JWJ2010-02-152010-02-151985http://hdl.handle.net/1969.3/23250355-357Salt marsh plots located in Galveston Bay, Texas, were treated with oil during November and May, the respective periods of declining and increasing growth for Spartina alterniflora. Live plant biomass and residual oil in sediment were determined periodically after oil treatment. Season did not influence S. alterniflora response to oil when applied to sediment and lower plant portions. In these cases, plant response was similar after November and May applications, with a reduction in live plant biomass observed only for No. 2 fuel oil. Season did influence S. alterniflora response to oil when applied to entire plant surfaces. Long-term effects were the result of initial adverse effects on roots, which slowed plant recoveryECOLOGYEcosystemsMarine biologyWATER POLLUTION -- Oil SpillsSeasonal response of Spartina alterniflora to oilCONF